May birthstone: emerald

Emerald is May’s only birthstone. Vivid green, deeply cultural, and the most maintenance-needy of the “big four” precious stones (diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald).

A May-birthstone gift should think about wearability. Emerald in a pendant or earrings is no problem; emerald in a daily-wear ring needs a protective bezel and a willingness to re-oil at a jeweler every 5–10 years. See the full emerald guide for treatment and origin details before you commit to a piece.

Choosing for a gift

• Pendants and earrings — emerald shines. No impact risk; the saturated green flatters most skin tones; sized stones are affordable.
• Rings — bezel or partial-halo settings. Plan for occasional re-oiling. Consider tsavorite garnet as a more durable green alternative if maintenance worries you.
• Birthstone necklaces for children — go pendant rather than ring for the durability reason above.